West Dunbartonshire Council is calling on dog owners to keep their four-legged friends away from sheep during the lambing season.

The local authority is making the plea to help protect farm lambs this spring.

A council spokeswoman said: “Owners should be aware of the devastating harm caused to a flock by a barking or chasing dog.

“The dog owner will often be completely unaware it is an offence for a dog to worry sheep, and owners are liable for any damage caused by their dog.

“Please keep dogs away from farm land before and during lambing and if you do need to be near farm land, keep your dog close, calm, under control and in all circumstances on a lead.

“Any member of the public who sees a stray dog near sheep during this time should call the dog warden service on 0141 951 7957.”